Born to be Separated

When we first separate them

When puppies are born, they are destined to be separated from each other. This sad fact is so often overlooked by us as we are eager to welcome the new addition to our family.

However, we must not forget that it is so important that puppies live with their mother and their brothers and sisters. If the proper time isn’t adhered to this cause certain physical and psychological problems later in life.

The same a human baby your puppy is dependent on its mother, they will receive all the same things such as food and love from mother. Staying with their sibling for these early weeks also builds social skills and the importance of acceptable play. During this period, it is also important that the puppies are introduced to humans and have an increased contact with people.

The weaning process should be gradual and not forced as this may cause both harm to the mother’s health and the puppies. Forcing the weaning process can result in blocked mammary glands which cause the mother extreme pain and the threat of mastitis.

On the physical and behavioural side if the separation is to early the puppies could develop problems such as poor physical condition, decreased learning ability and serious separation anxiety.

Remember reassuring the puppy that he has not been abandoned will start to build a strong bond.

Author:

Paul Daly

HDipCCB One of the UK’s Leading Dog Behaviourists

I have made it my purpose in life to help you understand your dog and build a true relationship which is based on trust. I have worked with 1000’s of dogs and their owners with 70% of these cases being aggression to both dogs and people. Whilst the remaining 30% of cases were made up of pulling on the lead, over excitement, recall, prey drive behaviour, separation anxiety and training related issues.